How Much Does a Spare Key For Your Car Cost?
It's a huge inconvenience to lose your car keys. It's important to keep a spare in case you break or lose your primary key. What is the cost of an extra key for your vehicle cost?
spare remote car key will depend on a number of factors. This article will examine these factors to help you decide whether it's worth having a spare key created.
Make
Having a spare key for your vehicle is always a good idea as losing one can be a costly and stressful experience. However, the cost of having a spare key can differ based on the vehicle's make and model, as well as the type of key you have.
Basic keys, like ones that don't contain any technology are cheaper to replace because they only require a simple cut from a blank. They also don't need special encoding. However, a key that is fitted with an auto fob or transponder chips will need to be programmed by specialists and will increase the cost.
If you lose your only key, the first step is to find a locksmith that has the ability to program the type of key you want. Alternatively, you can attempt to save money by having a new key cut, and then programming it yourself. You can locate the procedure in the owner's manual, or go online to search for "how do I program (your year model and year of manufacture) key." You could save up to $150.
Model
The model of your vehicle determines the cost of an extra key. If you need the replacement of a key for a luxury model or a premium car, the cost will be higher. The cost is also affected by the kind of material used in the making of the key. For example, it will cost less to replace a blank key than a complete key with an integrated fob. If you're looking to save money, several dealerships will also cut and program keys from third-party suppliers for you.
Year
A spare car key is vital particularly if your children are young and may get locked inside the car. You can purchase a spare car key in several ways, including by visiting the dealership that you purchased your car from or by hiring an auto locksmith or purchasing one on the internet. Each method comes with its own costs and advantages. You must be aware of the type of key you want and the lock type prior to making a choice. The more expensive a brand is, the greater the cost.
Key type
A spare key can allow you to avoid being without a place to go if you lose your main car keys. However the cost of having a spare car key can differ greatly based on the lock type your vehicle is using as well as the type of key you have.
Traditional purely mechanical keys that function by inserting them into an ignition cylinder, they can be cut for less than $10 at a hardware store or locksmith. Chip keys, also known as transponder keys, are more expensive and feature small chips that communicate with the vehicle to confirm the keys are valid. These types of keys can only be duplicated at dealerships, because they are equipped with the technology needed to program them.
Other advanced systems, such as mirror folding or remote starters can also make it more expensive for replacing keys. These additional features can be useful if you're susceptible to losing your keys or have a tendency to place them in a strange location however, they also increase the risk of theft. It's worth placing the spare key in a different location and establishing a routine to clear your pockets of anything you don't require prior to getting into your vehicle. You can be certain that your spare key is there when you need to use it.
Locks
A spare car key could be a wise choice. You can save yourself lots of hassle if you lock your keys in the car or lose them. However, you must keep your spare key in a safe place, and ensure that you put it somewhere easily accessible. For instance an affixed key holder on the wall or the kitchen drawer are good places to put it.
The type of lock you have on your vehicle can also affect the cost of a replacement key. Traditional keys, which insert into a lock and then open the car doors are less expensive to replace than smart key fobs, which emit an electronic code that allows you to unlock or start the car from a distance.
If you lose your smart key, then you'll need to go to a dealership or locksmith for an alternative. They will have to confirm that you are the owner of the vehicle, which could require providing proof such as the registration number or title.
In the past, losing your car keys wasn't a huge deal. However, with the technological advances in automobiles, it's not as easy to find an extra. It can be expensive to have a new key made by a locksmith or dealer. Here are some tips to help you determine the cost to get a spare car key made.
Dealership
Whether you lost your keys to your car or were stolen, it's important to have a spare key in your side. You can save money and time in the long run. It also stops you from having to call a tow truck if you are stranded with no key. There are a variety of options to obtain a replacement key. These include dealerships, online services, and locksmiths. It is important to compare the costs and convenience of these options before making a choice.
The cost will also be contingent on the type of key you require. Keys that are traditional are inexpensive and easy to replace. More sophisticated keys are more expensive. Some features, like mirror folding, alarm activation, and remote start, may require specific components that are more difficult to find or manufacture. You should keep a record of the immobilizer's number, along with your key number. This will help you to save money.
Visit the dealer that sells the model of your vehicle to get an extra key. This will ensure that you have a key that is compatible with your car's system and is programmed properly. It is more expensive than other options, however it is the best method to ensure that you have a functioning key when you need it. In addition, it is often the only method to obtain a key for some more recent vehicles.